91-year-old ex-Oyo SSG urges youths to embrace hard work, discipline

Nigerian youths must embrace hard work and discipline to achieve longevity, advised Shuaib Oyedokun, a 91-year-old former Secretary to the Oyo State Government. Oyedokun shared his wisdom at the launch of his memoir, titled “Chief Shuaib Afolabi Oyedokun: A Peace Memoir – A Life of Dialogue, Diplomacy and National Cohesion: Lessons in Conflict Resolution and Enduring Reconciliation,” and the commemoration of his 91st birthday in Osogbo, Osun State.

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So just have your own plan and follow it. Don’t copy anybody. Just obey the rules of your Creator.

Oyedokun, who previously served in the administration of the late ex-Oyo State Governor Dr. Omololu Olunloyo, expressed concern over the increasing prevalence of immoral acts among the nation's youth. He urged them to live according to their creator's rules and to forge their own paths rather than imitating others. "So just have your own plan and follow it. Don’t copy anybody. Just obey the rules of your Creator," he stated.

During the event, attended by dignitaries including former Osun State Governor Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola, Oyedokun lamented the waywardness of younger generations. He noted their disregard for parental guidance and religious tenets, and their lack of vocational skills. "Youths should live as human beings. Younger ones are becoming wayward. They don’t obey their parental guardians. They don’t follow the religious tenets. They don’t learn any trade. They just stumble into society and live like that," he said.

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Youths should live as human beings. Younger ones are becoming wayward. They don’t obey their parental guardians. They don’t follow the religious tenets. They don’t learn any trade. They just stumble into society and live like that.

He also emphasized the importance of mentorship, encouraging young people to seek guidance from individuals of noble character and integrity. Prince Oyinlola, who described Oyedokun as his own mentor, praised the celebrant as a politician dedicated to the welfare of his people and a shining example of experienced leadership.

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Baba Oyedokun happens to be my own mentor. He was the one who, in 2001, welcomed me into the Peoples Democratic Party. He is a shining example of an experienced politician who wants the development of his people at all times.